Disasters and emergencies can strike at any time, making it important to be prepared. A survival kit is an essential tool for anyone looking to ensure their safety in a crisis. In this guide, we will go over what should be included in a basic survival kit, the different types of survival kits available, and how to choose the right one for you.
What should be in a basic survival kit
A survival kit should contain essential items that will help you survive in an emergency situation. The following items should be included in a basic survival kit:
Essential items
Survival Kits
Water and hydration tools
Access to clean water is critical in any emergency situation. Your survival kit should include a water bottle, water purification tablets, and a hydration bladder.
Food and food storage
Non-perishable food, such as energy bars, trail mix, and dried fruit, should be included in your survival kit. A portable stove, fuel, and utensils for cooking and eating are also important.
Light and communication tools
A flashlight, extra batteries, and a whistle are essential for signaling for help and navigating in the dark. A portable radio can also provide information about the situation and help you stay in touch with the outside world.
First aid and personal hygiene items
A first-aid kit, hand sanitizer, and personal hygiene items, such as wet wipes and toilet paper, are important to maintain good health.
Recommended items
Survival Kits
Shelter and warmth
A survival blanket, tent, and sleeping bag can provide essential shelter and warmth in an emergency situation.
Navigation and tools
A compass, map, and multi-tool can help you navigate and make repairs as needed.
Self-defense and security
A knife, pepper spray, and personal alarm can help you defend yourself and call for help in a dangerous situation.
Miscellaneous items
A notepad, pen, and cash can be useful for communication and purchasing supplies.
Different types of survival kits
Survival Kits
Not all survival kits are created equal. Depending on your specific needs, there are several types of survival kits to choose from.
Emergency go bag
An emergency go bag is a portable survival kit designed to provide essential supplies in the event of an evacuation. The following items should be included in an emergency go bag:
- Water and hydration tools
- Food and food storage
- Light and communication tools
- First aid and personal hygiene items
- Cash, ID, and important documents
It is recommended to have an emergency go bag ready at all times in case of a sudden evacuation.
Survival kit for kids
A survival kit for kids should be age-appropriate and include items that are easy for children to use and understand. The following items should be included in a kid-friendly survival kit:
- Water and hydration tools
- Food and food storage
- Light and communication tools
- First aid and personal hygiene items
- Stuffed animal or comfort item
- Color pencils or coloring book for entertainment
Military survival kits
Military survival kits are designed for military personnel and are typically compact and lightweight. Key components of a military survival kit include:
- Water and hydration tools
- Food and food storage
- Light and communication tools
- First aid and personal hygiene items
- Shelter and warmth
- Navigation and tools
- Self-defense and security
Disaster survival kit
A disaster survival kit should be tailored to the specific type of disaster you are preparing for.
For example, a disaster survival kit for a hurricane should include items such as waterproof containers, a portable generator, and waterproof clothing. On the other hand, a disaster survival kit for an earthquake should include items such as a gas mask, safety goggles, and a heavy-duty flashlight.
Choosing the right survival kit
Survival Kits
Choosing the right survival kit will depend on several factors, including your personal needs and the type of emergency you are preparing for. When choosing a survival kit, consider the following:
- Location: Your location will play a big role in what type of kit you need. For example, someone living in a coastal area may need a kit designed for hurricane preparedness, while someone living in an earthquake-prone area may need a kit designed for earthquakes.
- Family size: Consider the size of your family and their individual needs when choosing a survival kit. A family of four will need a larger kit than a single person.
- Budget: Survival kits can range from a few dollars to several hundred dollars, depending on the quality and quantity of items included. Determine your budget and choose a kit that fits within your means.
- Duration of use: Consider how long you may need to rely on your survival kit. A kit for a short-term emergency will be different from a kit for a long-term survival situation.
Also see, Best First Aid Kit for Preppers
Frequently asked questions
Survival Kits
- What should be included in a survival kit?
- A basic survival kit should include items such as food, water, shelter, first aid supplies, a flashlight, and a means of communication.
- How long do survival kits last?
- The lifespan of a survival kit depends on the type of food included and the storage conditions. Non-perishable food items can last for several years, while perishable items should be consumed within a few days.
- What should be included in a disaster survival kit?
- A disaster survival kit should include items such as water, food, a first aid kit, a flashlight, a portable radio, and a means of communication. It should also include items specific to the type of disaster you are preparing for, such as a gas mask for earthquakes or waterproof containers for hurricanes.
- What should be included in a car survival kit?
- A car survival kit should include items such as water, food, a first aid kit, a flashlight, a portable radio, a blanket, and a means of communication. It should also include items specific to the type of emergency, such as a jump cable or a shovel for winter weather.
- What should be included in a survival kit for kids?
- A survival kit for kids should include food, water, a first aid kit, a flashlight, a comfort item such as a stuffed animal, and a means of communication. It should also be designed for the child’s age and needs.
- Can I make my own survival kit?
- Yes, you can make your own survival kit by purchasing individual items and assembling them in a container. This allows you to customize the kit to your specific needs.
Conclusion
A survival kit is an essential tool for anyone looking to be prepared for emergencies and disasters. It is important to choose the right kit based on your location, family size, budget, and duration of use. With the right survival kit, you can be confident that you have the supplies and tools you need to stay safe and comfortable in any emergency situation.
